They don’t know its Christmas. But some may sense a certain peace in us and in the music and festivities.

I used to have two spongecake-coloured Labrador retrievers—which, especially at Christmas, just looked more like reindeer than actual reindeer. Or, at least had that look which went with sleigh bells and antlers.

In my backyard right now, are several dozens of happy birds, enjoying the bounty of plentiful seeds, nuts, apples, and suet. There’s quite a variety, but the cardinals bright red look especially festive against the brown and grey of the winter day. The wildlife, including the squirrels, is just going about their daily business, but the effect is like Christmas ornaments.

What animals do you associate with Christmas, and how do animals you are with, or familiar with, seem reflected in the season?